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State seeking volunteer weather monitors, especially in Greater Minnesota

The Minnesota State Climatology Office is seeking volunteers for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network , with Minnesota State Climatologist Luigi Romolo noting that reporting gaps remain significant in rural areas outside the Twin Cities.
Romolo explained that increasing reporting stations improves data accuracy for drought and flooding assessments, as current rural stations are often miles apart. More volunteer coverage directly strengthens the State Climatology Office's decision-making capacity.
Beyond precipitation, Romolo said volunteers can collect qualitative information like wilting plants, and create 'hail pads' using styrofoam and tin foil to track storm impacts. This data provides physical evidence for insurance claims.
Participants must provide a standard 4-inch-diameter rain gauge and maintain internet access to submit reports. Training materials are available online through the Minnesota State Climatology website to guide volunteers.
Romolo noted that volunteering serves as an educational activity for families while providing data he described as 'invaluable' for climate assessments. Interested individuals can contact Romolo at luigi.romolo@state.mn.us or visit CoCoRaHS.org.

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